Why Theatre Is Good For The Soul

17, May 2017

Parisian theatre

Theatre in Paris contributor

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Theatre is good for you, in both mind, body, and soul. Whether that means belting your favorite ballad after a heartbreak or going to see a show when you need a good laugh, theatre is therapeutic. How can we attest to such a thing? We are called Theatre in Paris, after all. To prove it, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 reasons why theatre is good for the soul.

1. It encourages self-expression and creativity

Dr. Kevin Brown, Assistant Professor in the Department of Theatre at the University of Missouri, Columbia, included both self-expression and creativity in his list as to why theatre is important in the 21st century, and we couldn’t agree more. Everyone needs a creative outlet!

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2. It helps us problem solve

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3. Theatre increases our ability to empathize

An involvement in theatre arts promotes a higher level of empathy in youths, reports Northern California’s television station, KQED. To summarize, there is a strong association between inner development and high school theatre. When you put yourself in a character’s shoes it becomes easier to imagine yourself in someone else’s shoes, too.​

4. It allows for an escape

5. Theatre makes us laugh

6. Theatre tells the truth

7. Theatre is good for the brain too!

A 2012 Psychology Today article delved into what an actor cognitively does. Interestingly enough, memorizing lines can help people who have never acted before increase their memory. All those late nights memorizing lines will pay off, in more ways than one!

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8. It forces us to self-reflect

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9. Theatre improves your self-esteem

The Guardian once covered a report that found that students who participated in one of the UK’s National Theatre drama programs had improved scores in self-confidence and self-esteem as compared to students who were not enrolled in a drama program. Apparently, the phrase “fake it until you make it” has some truth behind it!

10. Theatre makes you feel a part of something

Tams-Witmark sums it up pretty well; theatre builds community. Whether you’re casted in the show or watching one in a theatre full of people, you know that theatre is something much bigger than just yourselves.